10D
Date: July 8, 2025
To: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
From: Citizen Development and Enrichment Committee
By: Jamie Le, Assistant to the City Manager | [email protected] Subject: Citizen Development and Enrichment Committee – Discuss and Provide Direction on Appropriated Resource Contributions and Cottage Food Ordinance Related to the Neighborhood Coordinated Seaside Ranchos Holiday Lights Display, Discuss and Consider Adopting an ORDINANCE Amending the Torrance Municipal Code Pertaining to Cottage Food , and Accept and File Meeting Minutes .
Expenditure: None.
RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation of the Citizen Development and Enrichment Committee that City Council:
1. Discuss and provide direction on appropriated resource contributions and Cottage Food Ordinance related to the Neighborhood Coordinated Seaside Ranchos Holiday Lights Display; and
2. Discuss and consider adopting an ORDINANCE amending Torrance Municipal Code (TMC) Section 415.0.040 (B) “Operating Standards” and repealing Section 415.1.050 “Pilot Program” of Division 4 “Public Health and Welfare”, Chapter 15 “Cottage Food”; and
3. Accept and file the March 26, 2025, meeting minutes; and
4. Approve an ordinance summary for publication.
FUNDING
None required.
DISCUSSION
The Citizen Development and Enrichment Committee met on March 26, 2025, to discuss the Torrance 2026 Rose Float Entry and Seaside Holiday Lights.
During the Seaside Light item, several items were brought up including:
• Vendors & Fundraising
• Seaside Lights Nonprofit Formation
• The Cottage Food Ordinance Loophole
• Event Management & Safety
• Economic and Regional Impacts
1 City Council
July 8, 2025
Following the presentation of the item and public comment, the Committee directed staff to return with an item for City Council to consider updating the Cottage Food Ordinance to clarify that food distributed as “donations” must follow existing direct sales hours (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM). It was also requested that staff work with the community members that were working to establish the Seaside Holiday Lights Nonprofit and develop an operational plan and funding mechanism for the event.
Since the meeting, staff has made numerous attempts to connect with the community members that proposed the nonprofit. Unfortunately, staff has not received any response. The City of Torrance remains in contact with the Seaside Neighborhood Association to provide information as it becomes available.
The Citizen Development and Enrichment Committee is requesting that City Council:
1. Discuss and provide direction on appropriated resource contributions and Cottage Food Ordinance related to the Neighborhood Coordinated Seaside Ranchos Holiday Lights Display;and
2. Discuss and consider adopting an ORDINANCE amending Torrance Municipal Code (TMC) Section 415.0.040(B) “Operating Standards” and repealing Section 415.1.050 “Pilot Program” of Division 4 “Public Health and Welfare”, Chapter 15 “Cottage Food”; and
3. Accept and file the March 26, 2025, meeting minutes; and
4. Approve an ordinance summary for publication.
ATTACHMENTS
1. March 26, 2025 Citizen Development and Enrichment Committee Meeting Agenda Packet
2. March 26, 2025 Citizen Development and Enrichment Committee Meeting Minutes
3. Cottage Food Ordinance
4. Ordinance Summary
2
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CITIZEN DEVELOPMENT AND ENRICHMENT
COUNCIL COMMITTEE
AGENDA
Wednesday, March 26, 2025
REGULAR MEETING
4:00 PM
LeROY J. JACKSON COUNCIL CHAMBER
3031 TORRANCE BLVD.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the City Manager’s office at (310) 618-5880. Notification 48 hours prior to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. [28CFR35.102-35.104 ADA Title II]
Direct questions or concerns to the City Council at (310) 618-2801, City Manager at (310) 618-5880, or the individual department head prior to submission to the City Council. Parties will be notified if the complaint will be included on a subsequent agenda.
PARTICIPATE BEFORE THE MEETING by submitting a public comment on the OneMeeting Public Portal at https://torranceca.primegov.com/public/portal?fromiframe=true. Hard copies of public comment may be submitted to the City Clerk’s Office during regular business hours. All comments submitted before 5:30 p.m . on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, will be published for public review prior to the meeting. Comments received after the deadline, but prior to the adjournment of the meeting will be added to the record.
The agenda was posted on the Public Notice Board at 3031 Torrance Blvd and on the City’s Website on Thursday, March 20, 2025 /s/ Rebecca Poirier
1. CALL MEETING TO ORDER
2. ROLL CALL ____ Gerson ____ Mattucci ____ Chair Lewis
3. FLAG SALUTE
4. WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS
ATTACHMENT 1
3
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5. ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
5A. Community Services – Approve Conceptual Float Design for the 2026 Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade and Provide Recommendation on Funding Allocation. Expenditure: None.
Recommendation of the Community Services Director that the City Council Citizen Development and Enrichment Committee:
1. Approve the conceptual float design for the City’s float entry in the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade on January 1, 2026; and
2. Provide a recommendation to the City Council on a funding allocation to support the construction of the City’s entry for the 2026 Tournament of Roses Parade.
5B. City Manager – Review and Provide Direction on Appropriated Resource Contributions and Cottage Food Ordinance related to the Neighborhood Coordinated Seaside Ranchos Holiday Lights Display.
Expenditure: None.
Recommendation of the City Manager that the Citizen Development and Enrichment Committee:
1. Review and Provide Direction on the Appropriated Resource Contributions to the Neighborhood Coordinated Seaside Ranchos Holiday Lights Display
2. Provide Direction to the Cottage Food Ordinance as it relates to the Neighborhood Coordinated Seaside Holiday Lights Display.
5C. City Manager – Review and Provide Direction on Proposed City Website Design and Concepts Recommendation of the City Manager that the Citizen Development and Enrichment Committee review and provide direction on the proposed City website design and concepts.
6. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
This portion of the meeting is reserved for comment on items not on the agenda or on topics of general interest to the public that are within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Citizen Development and Enrichment Committee.
Under the Ralph M. Brown Act, the Citizen Development and Enrichment Committee cannot act on items raised during public comment but may respond briefly to statements made or questions posed; request clarification; or refer the item to staff.
7. CLOSING REMARKS
8. ADJOURNMENT
4 5B
Date: March 26, 2025
To: Chair and Members of the Citizen Development and Enrichment Committee From: Aram Chaparyan, City Manager
By: Jamie Le, Assistant to the City Manager | [email protected] Subject: City Manager – Review and Provide Direction on Appropriated Resource Contributions and Cottage Food Ordinance related to the Neighborhood Coordinated Seaside Ranchos Holiday Lights Display. Expenditure: None
RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation of the City Manager that the Citizen Development and Enrichment Committee:
1. Review and Provide Direction on the Appropriated Resource Contributions to the Neighborhood Coordinated Seaside Ranchos Holiday Lights Display
2. Provide Direction to the Cottage Food Ordinance as it relates to the Neighborhood Coordinated Seaside Holiday Lights Display.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Seaside Ranchos Holiday Lights Display is a resident-organized event that draws large crowds, requiring City support for public safety measures such as traffic control, sanitation, and code enforcement, with total costs of approximately $190,306 for 2025. While the City does not sponsor the event, it implements measures to ensure community safety. Staff reviewed best practices from other cities, which confirm that municipal involvement should remain limited to public safety while the event remains resident-led. Additionally, the Cottage Food Ordinance currently restricts direct sales but allows food distribution through donations, creating a loophole.
If the Committee wishes to further regulate this activity, an ordinance update would be required.
The Committee’s direction on these matters will help define the City's role in maintaining safety and compliance while respecting the community-driven nature of the event.
DISCUSSION
For several years, residents in the Seaside Ranchos neighborhood in Torrance have elaborately decorated their homes for the holidays. The annual neighborhood coordinated light display in the Seaside Ranchos area of Torrance is not a city-sponsored nor a city-sanctioned event. The decision to do, or not to do, these displays is entirely upon each of the homeowners and the City is not in any way involved in that decision-making process. Over the years, this neighborhood event has attracted large crowds and has created potential safety hazards. Although not a City event, the City of Torrance does have an obligation to address public safety concerns.
The City maintains the position that the annual neighborhood coordinated light display in the Seaside Ranchos area of Torrance is not a city-sponsored or city-sanctioned event. The City's 5 Citizen Development and Enrichment Committee
March 26, 2025
sole obligation is to implement measures to protect the health and safety of the community at large.
On September 10, 2024, City Council requested that staff review other agency protocol and also alternative ways to subsidize the cost of City resources.
Residential Incentive District (RID)
One potential program staff reviewed was a Residential Incentive District (RID). Unfortunately, staff does not believe this program would be good fit, as a RID works similar to a Tax Increment Financing program. In other words, the difference between the amount of property tax revenue generated before a RID designation and the amount of property tax revenue generated after designation is allocated to the RID. Funds received by a RID can only be used to support new roads/road improvements, water, sewer, blight elimination, development incentives, and other project costs permitted by state law. It doesn’t appear that the funds could be used to support events. It also appears that prior to approval of an RID, a Joint Review Board must approve it.
The Joint Review Board, required by state law, has a voting representative from each of the affected taxing entities, as well as a citizen representative. Further, the Joint Review Board must be assured the RID is financially able to pay itself off, so general taxpayers do not have to pay for costs associated with RID projects. If it is the desire of the Committee to pursue a RID, then a Request for Proposal would need to be issued to assist with the development of the program.
Community-Led Holiday Light Displays: Best Practices and Case Studies Community-organized holiday light displays have become beloved traditions in many California neighborhoods. These events are managed by residents, neighborhood associations, or independent groups without direct city sponsorship. Staff explored community-led holiday light events in various California cities, highlighting best practices in governance, funding, traffic management, vendor control, and overall efficiency that ensure public safety and a positive visitor experience.
Rancho Cucamonga – Thoroughbred Street Holiday Lights
The Thoroughbred Street holiday light display is a long-standing neighborhood tradition entirely organized by residents, with the City of Rancho Cucamonga stepping in only for safety and traffic management. Homeowners decide when to decorate, and there is no formal committee overseeing the event. The city explicitly states that it does not coordinate the lights, reinforcing the grassroots nature of the tradition.
All costs are covered by homeowners, with no city funds allocated for decorations or amenities.
The city’s involvement is limited to managing traffic congestion and safety concerns. Due to the high volume of visitors, Rancho Cucamonga enforces a “Drive-Thru Only” policy during peak hours, restricting pedestrian access to off-peak times. Parking is limited to residents, requiring proof of residence. City police and traffic engineers adjust the plan annually to ensure emergency access and minimize gridlock.
The city regulates home-based vending under California’s cottage food laws, requiring residents selling food to obtain health permits, a home occupation permit, and a business license. There is 6 Citizen Development and Enrichment Committee
March 26, 2025
strict enforcement against unlicensed street vendors, keeping the focus on holiday lights rather than turning the neighborhood into a commercial festival.
To maintain safety and efficiency, police, fire, and traffic personnel continuously assess potential hazards. The city provides clear communication that aside from safety measures, no additional municipal services—such as public restrooms or shuttles—will be offered. This ensures visitors are prepared while preserving the event as a private community effort.
Los Angeles (Woodland Hills) – Candy Cane Lane
For over 60 years, Candy Cane Lane in Woodland Hills has been a cherished community tradition.
The display, centered on Lubao Avenue, is resident-driven, with no formal city management.
Homeowners organize the event through a local group and a Neighborhood Watch team, coordinating decorations and liaising with authorities as needed. Decisions, including when to turn on the lights, remain in the hands of residents.
Funding is entirely private, with each family covering the cost of lights and displays. The City of Los Angeles does not allocate a budget for the event, though the local council office has provided in-kind support such as extra trash bins and signage. The city’s expenditures are limited to public safety and infrastructure maintenance.
Due to its popularity, the event experiences significant traffic congestion, particularly on weekends. In response, the community and city officials collaborated on safety measures, including increased LAPD patrols and pedestrian-friendly policies. Although streets remain open to vehicles, visitors are encouraged to park nearby and walk. Large signs remind attendees to be courteous and minimize disruptions to residents.
A growing concern has been unlicensed street vending, which the city addressed by enforcing permit requirements and stepping up patrols. LAPD presence and community vigilance have significantly reduced unauthorized vendors, preserving the event’s festive atmosphere.
To maintain efficiency, the local Neighborhood Watch meets with city representatives annually to evaluate and address recurring challenges. This partnership has successfully improved safety and traffic flow while keeping the event community-driven.
Altadena – Christmas Tree Lane
Christmas Tree Lane in Altadena is one of the nation’s oldest holiday light traditions, illuminating a mile-long stretch of Santa Rosa Avenue for over a century. Managed by the nonprofit Christmas Tree Lane Association, the event is entirely volunteer-run, with no direct oversight or funding from the city. The association, established in 1956, ensures the tradition continues through year-round planning, fundraising, and maintenance efforts.
The display is funded through private donations and community contributions. While there have been in-kind support efforts, such as Southern California Edison installing a permanent electrical system, no taxpayer money is used. Volunteers contribute thousands of hours annually to maintain and install the lights, reducing operational costs and keeping the event sustainable. 7 Citizen Development and Enrichment Committee
March 26, 2025
Traffic is carefully managed in coordination with county authorities. On regular nights, vehicles slowly drive through the lane, often with headlights off to enhance the viewing experience. During the annual Opening Ceremony and Winter Festival, the street is temporarily closed to cars, allowing visitors to walk freely under the illuminated trees. Sheriff’s deputies assist with traffic rerouting, and additional parking is arranged to accommodate visitors.
Unlike other holiday light displays, Christmas Tree Lane restricts street vending on most nights to maintain a peaceful atmosphere. Vendors are only permitted during the Winter Festival, and even then, participation is limited to local artisans and nonprofit organizations that coordinate with the association. This controlled approach prevents excessive commercialization and keeps the event focused on its historical and community-driven roots.
The Christmas Tree Lane Association’s well-structured governance ensures the event’s continuity. By securing necessary permits, organizing volunteers, and maintaining a close partnership with local authorities, the association preserves the tradition while efficiently managing public safety and logistics.
San Diego (Rancho Peñasquitos) – Christmas Card Lane
Christmas Card Lane in Rancho Peñasquitos has been a grassroots holiday tradition for nearly 40 years, transforming several residential streets into a festive drive-through display. The event is entirely resident-organized, with no official governing committee. Homeowners coordinate informally, ensuring lights are displayed consistently and maintaining the signature theme of large, decorated plywood "Christmas cards" on their lawns.
Funding is self-sustained, with each homeowner covering their own decorations. There are no city grants or sponsorships involved. Some community organizations, such as the Rancho Peñasquitos Town Council, help with communication and occasional activities, but financial support and decision-making remain within the neighborhood.
Traffic is naturally regulated by the layout of the streets, which form loops and cul-de-sacs that channel vehicles in a one-way flow. On busy nights, many visitors park outside the neighborhood and walk through to better appreciate the displays. There is no formal traffic enforcement, as the event operates smoothly under voluntary resident coordination and general public courtesy.
Unlike large-scale city-sponsored events, Christmas Card Lane does not permit commercial vending within the neighborhood. The absence of food trucks and vendors helps maintain the residential character of the event and minimizes cleanup efforts.
Christmas Card Lane’s success lies in its strong community participation and informal yet effective organization. New families continue to embrace the tradition, ensuring its sustainability without the need for city involvement or external funding. The event remains a testament to the power of grassroots collaboration and neighborhood spirit.
These insights highlight the importance of a balanced approach where local communities take the lead in organizing holiday displays while cities provide strategic support to ensure public safety and smooth operations. By fostering grassroots involvement, encouraging self-sustained funding, and implementing practical traffic and vendor management strategies, municipalities and 8 Citizen Development and Enrichment Committee
March 26, 2025
residents can collaborate effectively to preserve cherished traditions. This model not only enhances community engagement but also ensures that holiday events remain festive, safe, and sustainable for years to come.
Anticipated Resources for 2025
The City maintains the position that the annual neighborhood coordinated light display in the Seaside Ranchos area of Torrance is not a city-sanctioned event. The City’s sole obligation is to implement measures to protect the health and safety of the community at large.
The following resources are anticipated for the 2025 Holiday Season:
Non-Labor Resources
The City plans to allocate approximately $13,400 for non-labor resources, which include:
Sanitation Services: Deployment of 20 trash bins with coordinated pick-ups ( up to $2,500).
Traffic Control: Two illuminated light boards to provide parking and traffic information ($5,000).
Community Outreach: Informational door hangers for residents ($300). Code Enforcement: Contract services for an additional Code Enforcement Officer ($5,700).
Public Works Webpage Updates: Online resources to inform residents and visitors on key regulations and city contacts.
Labor Resources
The City anticipates labor costs of approximately $176,906, covering personnel for traffic control, public safety, and enforcement. Key allocations include:
Public Works Traffic Management: Staff will deploy and monitor signage, message boards, and traffic control devices, as well as manage road closures. ($8,894) Police Department Support: Traffic control and bicycle patrols will be staffed by Motor Officers, Service Officers, and Police Officers to ensure public safety ($158,396) Code Enforcement: Additional Code Enforcement Officers will be assigned to monitor compliance with city regulations ($9,614).
These efforts will help maintain a safe and orderly environment for residents and visitors during the holiday season.
Cottage Food Ordinance
One further issue that needs to be addressed is the Cottage Food Ordinance. Last year, City Council voted against updating the Cottage Food Sales Ordinance. Direct sales are not allowed from an attached garage, accessory residential structure, or any place outside of the residential home. Additionally, direct sales are only allowed from the home between the hours of 9:00 am and 5:00 pm, daily. However, a number of residents found a loophole in the ordinance. The ordinance only covers time limits and location, as related to sales. As the ordinance does not cover giving food away or requesting donations, there is no limit to when or where either of these actions can take place. However, residents would still be required to obtain a County Cottage Food permit and a City Cottage Food business license. Additionally, all federal, state, county, and local regulations would still apply, including but not limited to the subject food must made within the home where it is being given away or donations are being requested and labeled in 9 Citizen Development and Enrichment Committee
March 26, 2025
accordance with specific federal and state labeling regulations. While it can sometime get sticky in terms of sales versus requesting donations, with donations residents should not be making change or returning any funds. If it is the desire of the Committee to not allow any cottage food distribution between the hours of 5:00 pm and 9:00 am, then the ordinance would need to be updated to reflect this decision.
Conclusion
Staff recommends that the Citizen Development and Enrichment Committee provide direction on the City’s appropriated resources for the 2025 Seaside Ranchos Holiday Lights Display, ensuring that the event remains a resident-led tradition while maintaining necessary public health and safety measures. The review of best practices from other cities reinforces the importance of limited municipal involvement, focused primarily on traffic control, sanitation, and enforcement.
Additionally, the Committee’s guidance on the Cottage Food Ordinance will help address potential regulatory gaps while maintaining consistency with existing policies. The direction provided by the Committee will allow staff to refine the City's approach and ensure that both residents and visitors can continue to enjoy a safe and well-managed holiday tradition.
ATTACHMENT
1. Non-Labor and Labor Resources Data Table
10 Citizen Development and Enrichment Committee
March 26, 2025
ATTACHMENT 1
Non-Labor Resource 2024 Cost 2025
Estimated Cost
20 trash bins and service that includes coordinated
pick-ups with the residents
$2,200 Not to Exceed $2,500
Two illuminated light boards to assist with traffic
control and inform visitors of parking restrictions
$5,000 $5,000
Seaside Resident Informational Door Hangers $280 $300
1 Contract Code Enforcement Officer $5,700 $5,700
Public Works webpage for Seaside Ranchos
residents and visitors that included information
regarding:
o City Contact
o Parking Violations
o LA County Public Health Mobile
Food Program
o Sanitation/Trash Bins
o Traffic and Signage
o Code Enforcement
Total $13,153 $13,400
11 Citizen Development and Enrichment Committee
March 26, 2025
Labor Resources
Item Staff # of
Staff Day(s) Hour(s) Cost/Day Total Cost
Deployment of message
boards, traffic control
devices, “no stopping”
signs and directional signs
Traffic
Painter 1 3 8 $326.88 $980.64
Maintenance
Worker 1 3 8 $224.64 $673.92
Monitoring of all signage
and message boards, daily,
during the event
Maintenance
Worker 1 16 1 $28.08 $449.28
Traffic control set up,
staging and break -down for
closure at Linda and PV
Blvd.
Traffic
Painter 1 10 6^ $337.10 $3370.95
Maintenance
Worker 1 10 6^ $231.66 $2316.60
Breakdown of message
boards, traffic control
devices, “no stopping” signs
and directional signs
Traffic
Painter 1 2 8 $326.88 $653.76
Maintenance
Worker 1 2 8 $224.64 $449.28
Police Department Traffic
Control
Motor Officer 2 22 7^ $1,960.56 $43,132.32
Service
Officer or
Police Officer
1 22 7^ $980.28 $21,566.16
Police Department Bicycle
Patrol
Police
Sergeant 1 22 7^ $1,318.17 $28,999.74
Police Officer 3 22 7^ $2,940.84 $64,698.48
Code Enforcement
Senior Code
Enforcement
Officer
1 17 4 $267.48 $4547.16
Code
Enforcement
Officer
1 4 4 $260.69 $1042.76
Code
Enforcement
Officer
1 18 4 $173.79 $3,128.22
Code
Enforcement
Officer
1 5 4 $179.35 $896.77
Total $9,781.04 $176,906.04
12 Name: Brent Maille
Comment - 03/26/2025 09:04 AM: ( No Vote )
From: BM
Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025 at 10:45 PM
To: [email protected] <[email protected]> Subject: CDEC Committee: Direction on the Appropriated Resource Contributions FRUSTRATED 20+ YEAR RESIDENT BUT AVID DECORATOR… LOVE A LOT ABOUT OUR ANNUAL SPECTACLE BUT WE – AND THE CITY– ARE AT A BREAKING POINT.
To: Committee Members, Council Members, and City Staff
Each year, the City is shocked and surprised by the money spent the past December to support the neighborhood and its holiday light displays. Year after year, expenditures increase — and year after year, the situation in the neighborhood seems to worsen.
It may be time for the City to reconsider its current approach. Perhaps existing traffic mitigation strategies and City-supported efforts are unintentionally contributing to the problem. Encouraging and facilitating visitor access may, in fact, be part of what’s exacerbating the chaos. Introducing a bit of difficulty — some friction — in navigating the neighborhood might actually discourage excessive crowds and help restore balance.
Resident vending is a major factor. While well-intentioned, this past City-approved activity shifted the character of the event. What was once a charming, mostly drive-through holiday experience has, over the past 7–8 years, taken on a carnival-like atmosphere. These changes closely align with the City’s involvement and, in particular, its decision to temporarily allow resident vending.
On a micro level, I see this daily. My street has several resident vendors. As a result, my driveway and even my vehicles become makeshift picnic spots. Visitors congregate to eat and drink, using car trunks, bumpers, and hoods as tables and chairs — often leaving trash behind as souvenirs.
On a macro level, this vending contributes significantly to crowd density, litter, traffic gridlock, and rising tension between residents and visitors. It’s clear the City is investing more money and resources every year to manage these effects — and it’s still not enough. I worry that both the City and the neighborhood are reaching a breaking point. The sentiment among neighbors is shifting; more and more, I hear, “Why do we still do this?” And honestly, there are nights I ask myself the same question. Are we at risk of losing this tradition to neighborhood fatigue? Maybe that’s the goal — consciously or not.
Another observable change over the past several years is the shift from drive-through to walk- through traffic. Sidewalks are now overcrowded, and pedestrians flood the streets and intersections, slowing vehicle flow to a crawl if not turning the streets into a parking lot. Ironically, efforts meant to manage traffic have pushed it — and all its side effects — into adjacent neighborhoods. Residents there are surely noticing the overflow of parked cars and foot traffic.
5. ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
5B. City Manager – Review and Provide Direction on Appropriated Resource Contributions and Cottage Food Ordinance related to the Neighborhood Coordinated Seaside Ranchos Holiday Lights Display. Expenditure: None PUBLIC COMMENT REPORT FOR AGENDA ITEM 5B
13 If the City is concerned about rising costs for a “non-City” event, perhaps it’s time to ask the hard question: Why have things worsened despite increasing investment? I have my own theories to share, and I’d be interested in hearing others. But we cannot continue down this same path each year, spending more to manage something that feels increasingly unmanageable.
Resident vending is a major contributor, but another possible factor is the City’s traffic mitigation strategy itself. Has it worked? Or has it amplified attention and drawn even larger crowds? Maybe we shouldn’t be making it easy for visitors to find and access the neighborhood. A little inconvenience might deter some — and that’s not a bad thing.
In short, perhaps it’s time to explore a policy of retreat. Scaling back, not expanding. Eliminating vending and reintroducing mild friction for visitors could help return the event to its original character: a calm, family-friendly, drive-through experience. The benefits are clear — better pedestrian movement, less trash, reduced congestion, fewer conflicts, and perhaps most importantly, fewer City resources required.
What was once a magical neighborhood tradition has, in recent years, morphed into a 25-day street festival — more reminiscent of Wilson Park’s Saturday Farmers Market than a holiday light tour. It may be time to restore the balance — for the sake of both residents and the tradition itself.
Thank you for your time.
Brent Maille
I realize this is after the 5:30pm deadline so will not be posted to public record before the CDEC meeting.
But please get a copy submitted as part of public record post meeting. Thank you!
Name: Brent Maille
Comment - 03/26/2025 09:05 AM: ( No Vote )
From: BM
Sent: Tuesday, March 25, 2025 10:45 PM
To: CityCouncil <[email protected]>
Cc: Le, Jamie <[email protected]>; Ramirez, Michelle <[email protected]> Subject: CDEC Committee: Holiday Lights/Cottage Food - 2024 Wrap Up
First, I want to express how truly special it is to live in Torrance. My interactions with City staff have consistently been outstanding. While I may not always like the answers, I deeply appreciate the effort and the promptness with which replies are provided.
Below are selected excerpts from a summary I previously shared with City staff regarding this past December’s holiday lights experience… at least from one residents perspective.
Additionally, I’ve included updated statistics from my earlier message, thanks to helpful follow-up from City staff:
14 • 11 citations were issued to homeowners, and 2 to outside vendors. • Of the 11 citations issued to homeowners, 7 were issued to a single resident.
Thank you again for your time and continued engagement.
I realize this is after the 5:30pm deadline so will not be posted to public record before the CDEC meeting.
But please get a copy submitted as part of public record post meeting. Thank you! From: BM
Date: Friday, February 14, 2025 at 1:43 PM
To: Ramirez, Michelle <[email protected]>, Le, Jamie <[email protected]> Subject: Holiday Lights/Cottage Food - 2024 Wrap Up
Good afternoon Michelle and Jamie,
I hope you’re both doing well.
I wanted to check in to see if there have been any City debriefs regarding the past holiday season in Seaside Ranchos. Additionally, do you have any updates on when and how any Cottage Food ordinance modifications will be addressed? I’d appreciate any insights you can share.
As I mentioned in my November/December emails, I’m happy to participate in any City discussions that involve neighborhood input.
Cottage Food (CF) Ordinance Adjustments
I hope the City will soon consider refining the language in the CF ordinance, particularly around the term "sales." You previously mentioned to me a significant distinction between "vend" and "sales":
• Using "vend" would prevent sales disguised as donations. • It would allow the City to enforce restrictions that confine food vending to inside the home and during certain hours, aligning with the original intent of the Cottage Food ordinance. • Currently, if a resident solicits offers—for example, offering a bag of popcorn for a "suggested donation"—they can operate with unlimited hours and locations (I assume only within the confines of their property????), effectively bypassing the ordinance provisions controlling hours and location.
0. There are plenty other parts of the ordinance that are still effective such as type of foods, number of customers and nuisance provisions that could be enforced even in a “suggested donation” situation.
• Fortunately, the Sidewalk Vending Ordinance 3851 already uses the term "vend," which could serve as a model for CF revisions.
How does the City distinguish between Cottage Food operations and Sidewalk Vending when the vending occurs in a driveway? If a homeowner is selling in their driveway, you treat this as a Cottage Food matter? Why not sidewalk vending? I don't know if it matters… I need to bounce this around in my head.
Understanding this distinction would be useful for future discussions.
Strengthening Enforcement & Fines
There’s a clear need for greater alignment between the CF ordinance and the Sidewalk Vending ordinance language as well as penalties and enforcement. Based on data compiled, several residents continued selling despite, I assume, many citations, as I am certain their nightly earnings far exceeded the fines. Their behavior did not change, even if they did voice complaints to the City or the CEOs.
15 Citation & Enforcement Data
While CEOs were present at least 90% of the nights (probably even more), there were at least 38 instances of driveway food sales on Reese Road alone. I’m curious how the number of citations compares to actual violations. Can you share any data on the number of citations issued this past December?
Observations on Holiday Trends
As mentioned in my late December email, the season started well, with notably very little trash in the gutters, streets and sidewalks —something I am able to observe on my daily 6 a.m. walks. However, as December progressed, the last week/week and a half, vending activity increased, along with associated issues. Trash was spilling out of the City provided receptacles, and significantly more trash was now present every morning in the gutters, streets and sidewalks. This late start of the trash issues could be due to unpredictable visitor patterns with visitors holding off their tour of the neighborhood to the latter part of December, but more likely, it reflects the fact that we lost the vending battle those last few weeks and the bad behaviors of others became contagious! And with more vending comes more trash.
I appreciate both of your efforts on this issue. Whether or not this ever gets to a “happy place,” your efforts are so greatly appreciated.
Looking forward to any updates you can provide.
Best regards,
Brent
16 March 26, 2025
MINUTES OF A MEETING OF THE CITIZEN DEVELOPMENT AND ENRICHMENT
COMMITTEE
1. CALL TO ORDER
The Citizen Development and Enrichment Committee meeting was called to order by Chair Lewis on March 26, 2025, at 4:08 PM in the Leroy J. Jackson Council Chamber
ROLL CALL
Present: Chair Lewis, Committee Member Gerson
Absent: Committee Member Mattucci
Present: Management Associate Carlos Huizar, Assistant to the City Manager Jamie Le, Community Development Director Michelle Ramirez, Sergeant David Koenig, Cultural Services Manager Monica Harte, and Management Aide Ian McCarthy.
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Committee Member Gerson.
3. WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS
Chair Lewis welcomed those in attendance and requested that committee members introduce themselves to the public.
4. REPORT OF STAFF ON POSTING OF THE AGENDA
Management Associate Carlos Huizar confirmed that the agenda was posted on the Public Notice Board at 3031 Torrance Boulevard and on the City’s website on March 20, 2025.
5. ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
5A. Approval of Conceptual Float Design for 2026 Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade & Recommendation on Funding Allocation
• Monica Harte presented this item using a slideshow that provided the images examples. Staff provided background on float builder options, high school design submissions, and concerns related to funding gaps.
• Torrance Rose Float Association selected a student design by Elizabeth Le (West High), professionally rendered by Fiesta Productions. 17 ATTACHMENT 2
oStaff noted a funding gap of approximately $110,000 based on a $235,000 proposal by Fiesta Productions versus the existing $125,000 allocation.
oCommittee discussed the benefits and risks associated with different vendors, importance of visual quality, and value of the float’s advertising on New Year’s Day.
MOTION:
1. Motion by Committee Member Gerson to recommend Option #2 (Student + Animal Design) to City Council as the official float design. • Seconded by Chair Lewis
• Vote: 2–0, Motion Passed Unanimously
2. Motion by Committee Member Gerson to recommend that City Council increase the float construction subsidy to $175,000 to help offset the funding gap. • Seconded by Chair Lewis
• Vote: 2–0, Motion Passed Unanimously
5B. Appropriated Resources and Cottage Food Ordinance – Seaside Ranchos Holiday Lights Display
Public speakers included residents and stakeholders (Isela B, James K., Jackie, Debbie S., Dan B., Brent M., among others). Comments focused on:
• Isela B. a founding member of the neighborhood organizing committee, expressed gratitude to City staff and the Code Enforcement team for their support. She noted that the event serves as strong positive publicity for Torrance and reported 80,000 visits to the neighborhood website during the last holiday season.
• James K. stated that issues with roaming vendors reemerged after the conclusion of the 2018 pilot program. He emphasized the event’s importance in supporting local schools through vendor fundraising and asked the Committee to explore options for cost sharing. • Jackie shared that residents are working to establish a 501(c)(3) nonprofit to coordinate future efforts and explore sponsorship opportunities to offset City costs.
• Debbie S. raised concerns about the loophole in the Cottage Food Ordinance that allows food to be given away or exchanged for donations.
She opposed signage directing visitors into the neighborhood and stressed the need to limit City support due to limited resources. • Dan B. highlighted the event’s regional draw and emphasized the need to better control roaming vendors. He advocated for a compromise between residents and the city to preserve the tradition while enhancing safety. • Goldstein, a longtime resident, reflected on the original 2018 pilot program and voiced support for a renewed collaboration between the city and a formally organized group to define roles and responsibilities. 18 • Tracy stated that the event promotes local businesses and restaurants and serves as a holiday attraction for the entire region. • Brent M. voiced concern about unregulated vendors and neighbor disputes. He also suggested reevaluating the event’s weekend schedule to reduce strain on residents and City resources.
MOTION: Chair Lewis recommended closing the loophole in the Cottage Food Ordinance by clarifying that food distributed as “donations” must comply with existing time restrictions for direct sales (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM). • Seconded by Committee Member Gerson
• Vote: 2–0, Motion Passed Unanimously
MOTION: Chair Lewis recommended to forward this item to City Council after complying with a recommendation that staff work with interested community members to:
• Finalize the formation of a 501(c)(3)
• Develop an operational plan and funding mechanism for the event • Include these items in a future staff report
• Seconded by Committee Member Gerson
• Vote: 2–0, Motion Passed Unanimously
5C. Proposed City Website Redesign
This item was deferred to a future meeting.
6. PUBLIC COMMENT
Chair Lewis asked if there were any members of the public that wished to speak under the Public Comment section. No members of the public wished to speak at this time.
7. CLOSING REMARKS
Management Associate Carlos Huizar thanked the Committee for their time and stated that the information provided in this meeting will be presented to City Council at a later date. He also noted that the staff would meet with representatives from the Seaside Lights 501c3 group. He confirmed that these discussions will enable staff to return to the City Council with more details.
8. ADJOURNMENT
At 5:48 pm Chair Lewis moved to adjourn the meeting. Committee Member Gerson seconded. The motion carried by a vote of 2-0 with Committee Member Mattucci absent. 19 1
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ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING SECTION 415.1.040(B) “OPERATING
STANDARDS” AND REPEALING SECTION 415.1.050 “PILOT PROGRAM” OF DIVISION 4 “PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE”, CHAPTER 15
“COTTAGE FOOD” OF THE TORRANCE MUNICIPAL CODE
RECITALS
WHEREAS, the City of Torrance is a charter city under California law with a recognized mandate to preserve, protect, and enhance the general health and welfare of its residents.
WHEREAS, on September 21, 2012, Assembly Bill (AB) 1616, the California Homemade Food Act, commonly referred to as the Cottage Food Bill, was passed into law and became effective on January 1, 2013.
WHEREAS, AB 1616 permits individuals to manufacture, package, and sell certain non- potentially hazardous foods in private-home kitchens and requires cities to enact and/or enforce applicable regulations.
WHEREAS, enforcement of existing municipal code ordinances that are inconsistent with the California Homemade Food Act (AB 1616) is prohibited.
WHEREAS, on October 22, 2019, the City Council of the City of Torrance adopt a Cottage Food Ordinance to protect the health, safety, and welfare of its residents, businesses, and visitors.
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Torrance has determined it necessary to amend its Cottage Food Ordinance to clarify operating standards within Torrance.
WHEREAS, the adoption of the Ordinance is not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15378, because the activity undertaken involves general text amendments that would not cause either a direct physical change in the environment or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment and does not meet the definition of a "Project" under CEQA. The proposed Ordinance is also exempt from CEQA Guidelines under Section 15061(b)(3) because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the Ordinance may have a significant effect on the environment.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Torrance does hereby ordain as follows:
SECTION 1
The City Council of the City of Torrance hereby finds and determines that all the above Recitals are true and correct and incorporates such Recitals into this Ordinance.
SECTION 2
Section 415.1.040(b), entitled "Operating Standards”, of Chapter 15 of Division 4 of the Torrance Municipal Code is amended in its entirety to read as follows:
“b) Operating Standards.
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6 1) Cottage food home operations existing prior to the ordinance codified in this chapter must obtain zoning clearance approval and a business license within thirty (30) days of the effective date of the ordinance.
2) Cottage food home occupation businesses shall not operate before securing all required permits and approvals from the State of California, County of Los Angeles Department of Public Health, and City of Torrance.
3) The cottage food home occupation use shall utilize only the kitchen and one (1) additional room inside the primary residence (including storage areas), which have been permitted and inspected by the County of Los Angeles Department of Public Health. 4) A cottage food home occupation business is permitted to produce foods that are defined as "non-potentially hazardous" by the State of California Department of Public health. A current list of approved cottage food products is maintained on the California Department of Public Health’s website and may be updated from time to time. 5) The cottage food operator must be a primary resident of the home where the cottage food home occupation business operates. A maximum of one (1) full-time employee, exclusive of family/household members, may be employed by the cottage food home occupation business at the primary residence. Neither a property owner nor a tenant, in the case of a rental unit, may sublet or grant the use of any part of their property to anyone not living at the resident (whether for profit or nonprofit) for the purpose of a cottage food operation.
6) A cottage food home occupation business, as defined by Health and Safety Code Section 113758, is permitted to conduct operations including but not limited to direct sales, fundraising, food distribution, or any other related food operation from the home only between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily.
7) Cottage food operations including but not limited to direct sales, fundraising, food distribution, or any other related food operation are allowed from the primary residence only and shall not be conducted from an attached/detached garage, accessory residential structure, or any place outside of the primary residential dwelling. 8) On-site dining and customer loitering are prohibited. No more than one (1) customer may be allowed at the site at any given time.
9) At least one (1) off-street parking space, as dimensioned in Chapter 3 of Division 9, is required to accommodate customers and deliveries. This required parking space shall not impede vehicular traffic or circulation and shall not block a driveway or sidewalk. A residential driveway space of an appropriate size and/or a designated guest parking space within a multifamily development may satisfy this requirement.
10) Operation of the cottage food home occupation business shall not occupy any required parking for the residential dwelling, i.e., required garage parking. 11) Delivery and loading vehicles shall not illegally park or sit idling and shall not impede vehicular traffic or circulation at any time.
12) The cottage food home occupation business shall not generate obnoxious odors, fumes or emissions that are perceptible without instruments by a reasonable person at or beyond the property line of the site.
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13) The cottage food home occupation business shall comply with the noise standards for residential zones as identified in Article 7 of Chapter 6 of this Division and any other noise standards found in Chapter 6 of this Division.”
14) The cottage food home occupation business must comply with all requirements listed in the California Health and Safety Code, including but not limited to the following requirements. • Preparing and packing foods from the Approved Foods List. • Completing a Cottage Food Operator Training within three months of registration/permitting.
• Implementing sanitary operations.
• Labels comply with local, state and federal requirements. • Operating within the established gross annual sales limits. • Registering or obtaining a permit from your local Public Health Department. 15) The cottage food home occupation business must comply with all requirements of the County of Los Angeles Public Health Department.
16) The cottage food home occupation business must comply with all requirements of the Torrance Municipal Code.”
SECTION 3
Section 415.1.050, entitled "Pilot Program”, of Chapter 15 of Division 4 of the Torrance Municipal Code is repealed in its entirety.
SECTION 4
Any provisions of the Municipal Code or its appendices, or any other ordinances of the City of Torrance inconsistent with this ordinance to the extent of the inconsistencies and no further, are repealed.
SECTION 5
If any Section, Subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or portion of this ordinance is for any reason deemed or held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision will not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this ordinance.
The City Council of the City of Torrance hereby declares that it would have adopted this ordinance and each Section, Subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or portion thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more Sections, Subsections, sentences, clauses, phrases or other portions might subsequently be declared invalid or unconstitutional.
SECTION 6
This ordinance was reviewed pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (Public Resources Code §§ 21000, et seq., “CEQA”) and the regulations promulgated thereunder (14 Cal. Code of Regulations §§15000, et seq., the “CEQA Guidelines”). This ordinance is exempt pursuant to CEQA Guidelines 15378, because the activity undertaken involves general text amendments that would not cause either a direct physical change in the environment or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment and does not meet the definition of a "Project" under CEQA. The proposed Ordinance is also exempt from CEQA Guidelines under Section 15061(b)(3) because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the Ordinance may have a significant effect on the environment. The ordinance consists only of bolstering public nuisance regulations. Adoption of this ordinance will not have the effect of deleting or substantially changing any regulatory standards or required findings. 22 4
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SECTION 7
This ordinance will take effect thirty days after the date of its adoption. Within fifteen days following adoption, this ordinance or a summary of this ordinance, if authorized by the City Council, will be published at least once in the Daily Breeze, a newspaper of general circulation, published and circulated in the City of Torrance.
INTRODUCED and APPROVED this _______ day _______ 2025.
ADOPTED and PASSED this _________ day of _______ 2025.
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
__________________________________
Mayor George Chen
PATRICK Q. SULLIVAN, City Attorney
By: _______________________________
Tatia Y. Strader, Assistant City Attorney
ATTEST:
__________________________________
Rebecca Poirier, City Clerk
23 ORDINANCE SUMMARY
On July 8, 2025, the City Council of the City of Torrance introduced by title only, at first reading, Ordinance No. _______ “An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Torrance, California, Amending Section 415.1.040(B) “Operating Standards” and Repea ling Section 415.1.050 “Pilot Program” of Division 4 “Public Health And Welfare”, Chapter 15 “Cottage Food” of the Torrance Municipal Code”
On August 5, 2025, the City Council of the City of Torrance adopted Ordinance No. ____.
Ordinance No. will take effect 30 days after the adoption date of September 10, 2024. The following is a summary of Ordinance No. ______.
Addition to the Torrance Municipal Code:
Ordinance No. _______ would amend Division 4 “Public Health and Welfare”, Chapter 15 “Cottage Food” to clarify the operational requirements for cottage food home occupation businesses. The Ordinance requires all cottage food businesses to secure zoning clearance, a business license, and approvals from the State of California, the County of Los Angeles Department of Public Health, and the City of Torrance prior to beginning operations. It limits such operations to the kitchen and one additional room within t he primary residence and clarifies that only foods defined as “non-potentially hazardous” by the California Department of Public Health may be produced. The ordinance further states that only a primary resident may operate the business and prohibits the subletting of any part of the home for cottage food purposes.
Furthermore, Ordinance No. _____ clarifies that Cottage food businesses may conduct direct sales, including food donations and fundraising, only between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily. All sales must occur within the primary dwelling, and no portion of a garage, accessory structure, or outdoor area may be used for these activities. The ordinance prohibits on-site dining and customer loitering and limits customer visits to one at a time. It also requires that at least one off-street parking space be provided for customer and delivery use, which must not impede driveways, sidewalks, or traffic circulation. Required garage parking for the residence must remain available for residential use and may not be used in connection with the business. Delivery vehicles must avoid idling and must not block traffic. Cottage food operations must not generate perceptible odors, fumes, or emissions beyond the property line, and all noise generated must comply with existing City noise regulations.
Furthermore, Ordinance No. ____ affirms that cottage food businesses must comply with all applicable provisions of the California Health and Safety Code, including training, labeling, sanitation, approved food lists, registration, and sales limits, as well as all applicable requirements of the County of Los Angeles Department of Public Health and the Torrance Municipal Code.
Lastly, Ordinance No. ____ would repeal Section 415.1.050 “Pilot Program’, as it is no longer applicable. This section expired in January 2021 and related to a holiday season Cottage Food Pilot Program designated for residents of the Seaside Ranchos area located within the boundaries of Sepulveda Boulevard, Anza Avenue, Calle Mayor, Pacific Coast Highway, and the west boundary of South Redondo Beach and Palos Verdes Boulevard.
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Passed, Approved, and Adopted the 5th day of August 2025, by the following vote:
Ayes:
Noes:
Absent:
Abstain:
The full text of Ordinance No. ____ is available for inspection during regular business hours at the City Clerk’s Office (3031 Torrance Boulevard, Torrance, California 90503) Monday through Friday with alternating closed Fridays from 7:30 am. to 5:30 p.m. or at www.torranceca.gov/government/city-clerk.
DATED THIS 5th DAY OF AUGUST, 2025
Rebecca Poirier, City Clerk
City of Torrance
3031 Torrance Boulevard
Torrance, California 90503
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